Community Collaboration Meeting Follow-up

Thank you for the strong showing of support at Monday’s community collaboration meeting.  Our time together centered on uniting our families to serve the broader community and exploring ways to boost our available resources.  Here is a link to the slides, as well as an overview of the connections, ideas, and resources shared:

• East Prairie

• Reviewed all support systems (including safety plans and resources) and communication tools (common language) for both students and staff.

• Reviewed the approach to incorporating current events into our social-emotional learning curriculum.

• Shared our existing and expanded community partnerships (LAN41 network, ELL Parent Center, counseling and behavioral health centers, etc.)

• Shared EPS Reporting Form and Safe2Help online tools.

• The Panther Pantry is an onsite resource providing free food, clothing, and school supplies to ALL our families.  We offer pick-up and delivery options—please visit the office or contact a staff member to access the support you need.

• We are ready to assist you!  To access the resources and support your family needs, please reach out to any trusted member of our school community, and they will ensure you are connected.

• Niles Township Government Social Services Department

• Here is a video overview of the financial assistance, food pantry, respite center, referral, and non-financial assistance resources supported by the Niles Township Government.

• Here is a link to the Niles Township Linktree to get involved and help in a variety of ways (supporting food needs, essential supplies, the community garden, etc.).

• Our East Prairie team is here to help you make connections, complete paperwork, and support in any way that we can.

• PTA

• Shared the following resources and plans.  Copies of each are attached in today's message to families in both English and Spanish.

• Know Your Rights When Interacting with Immigration Officers

• Safety Planning for Families

• Support for Parents + Caregivers: Talking with Children About Immigration Enforcement

• Here is a link to sign up with the PTA if you are interested in volunteering as a school patrol to help support the safe arrival/dismissal of our students and families within the neighborhood.

• Please reach out to a trusted community member or our staff if we can help coordinate a trusted adult to walk your child(ren) to and/or from school.

We remain dedicated to listening, learning, and gathering ongoing input on opportunities to enhance partnerships that best serve our families.  Our commitment is to always ensure this school remains a safe, welcoming, and protective environment for every student, family, and staff member.  We are a place of unconditional support and care for everyone in our community.  

Please never hesitate to reach out to any member of your child’s team if there is anything that we can do to support their safety, learning, and well-being.  We promise to continuously learn, grow, and improve to meet the needs of our community.  Collective care is the true strength of our community.  Know that we remain ready to support your child and family through every opportunity and every challenge.